Dunn 'weighs' his leadership role

One way or another, Adam Dunn is a team leader for the Reds.

Widely known for leading the majors in strikeouts, Dunn's leadership extends far beyond being the "King of Called Third Strikes." 

Dunn's $13 million salary leads all players on the Reds roster, topping fellow overpriced outfielder, Ken Griffey Jr. In fact, Dunn's salary is the highest in the 137 year history of the Reds organization.

"Since I got here in 2001, becoming a leader is something that's progressively occurred," said Dunn. "For example, I only got 74 strikeouts in my rookie season, but over the course of the years, I've gradually established myself as a leader in that department."

Another place where Dunn's leadership is unquestioned is at the clubhouse buffet. "Since I began with the team in 1947, I've never seen a guy pig out like that," commented Reds senior clubhouse manager, Bernie Stowe. "Sean Casey never met a man he didn't like, and Adam Dunn never met a smorgasbord he didn't like."

"Part of the rookie orientation we've implemented," added manager Dusty Baker, "is warning our younger players of the dangers of getting caught between Adam and a plate of chicken friend steak. Frankly, it's more dangerous than getting between a mother bear and her cubs."

Dunn's prowess at the dining table extends throughout all of baseball, as 'Pudge' Rodriquez, former major league leader in the waistline department, now defers to Dunn. "I've given up trying to compete with that dude," said Rodriquez. "In fact, I feel unworthy to be called 'Pudge' anymore."

Officially listed at 275 pounds, Dunn's actual weight is rumored to be more in the 320 pound range, which would place him in the lead, ahead of former Oriole, Walter Young, as the heaviest man in the history of the majors.

"I'm not trying to be cocky or conceited," said the Reds slugger, "but being a leader is something I've done since I was 10 years old. It's a role that I'm used to. Just because I don't do it like some people would do it or want me to do it, I can't help that."

Next up for Dunn: leading Major League Eating in Wendy's doubles.

"As we say back home," said Dunn, "everything's bigger, and hungrier, in Texas."